Understanding Cyber Bullying: Motives and Deterrents

International Journal of Indian Psychology, 3 (3), DOI: 10.25215/0303.006, DIP: 18.01.006/20160303With the advent of modern technology, cyber bullying (use of e-mail, cell phones, text messages etc.) has increased in India. Easy access to internet, cheap mobile phones, and virtually no law to stop the abuse of school children by their fellow classmates, the problem of cyber-crime among children and young adults have increased. According to a survey, conducted in 2012, 53% of Indian children between 8 and 17 years have been bullied online. The Global Youth Online Behavior Survey conducted by Microsoft ranked India third in cyberbullying of children. (after China and Singapore). Cyber bullying is a virtual offence with real consequences. The motives for cyber bullying can vary from gaining satisfaction from hurting the victim whom the perpetrator might dislike or be jealous of, feeling better about themselves, revenge for perceived provocation by the victim or just for fun where they are not be concerned about the effect on the target. However, anonymity is major contributor to cyber bullying as the perpetrator feels that his identity cannot be revealed. Like traditional bullying, it is intentional and repetitive and has psychological and physiological effect such as development of negative self-esteem in the victim ,somatic problems, anxiety, social withdrawal and isolation which in turn can lead to school absenteeism, academic problems, depression and aggressive acts ( homicidal or suicidal). Parents, being less enlightened about modern technology than adolescents and young adults, are often in the dark about the horrific experiences of their children and are unable to provide the necessary support. The present article focuses on the internal and external motives of cyber bullying and how adults (parents and teachers) and peers can effectively intervene to prevent cyberbullying.